In an announcement yesterday (30 June), Biffa said that by adding solar panels to top up regular engine power, up to 3,100kg of carbon emissions could be saved per vehicle each year.
Jeff Rhodes, head of environment and external affairs at Biffa, said: “Trialling solar panels to reduce our carbon emissions marks another strategic step in our journey to Net Zero and to making our fleet as environmentally friendly as possible.
“We introduced the biggest electrical vehicle fleet in the UK in Manchester earlier this year, and we are gradually phasing out our diesel vehicles.
“Customers and consumers are demanding businesses to ‘do better’ and by testing out tech like this we’re leading the way.”
The trial will last for six months. With 2,900 trucks across its business, Biffa says it could save nearly nine million kilograms of carbon emissions if the trial proves successful and solar panels are rolled out across the company’s entire fleet.
Biffa has targeted reducing its emissions by 50% by 2030. The solar panels would minimise the “necessary impact” of Biffa’s trucks on the environment, the company said.
Solar panels
The panels Biffa is to use have been provided by vehicle safety specialist Vision Techniques, using technology developed by solar transport technology company Trailar.
The panels sit on top of the vehicles and use light to charge the batteries while the truck is working. The alternator, which distributes electricity to the truck and charges the battery, can then use less fuel, cutting CO2 emissions.
Shaun Hamilton, general manager at Vision Techniques, said: “We needed a forward-thinking company to test the panels on trucks and as Biffa has always wanted to lead the way in technology, they were a great fit.
“Biffa has been a valuable customer for many years, presenting the perfect opportunity to trial this new equipment which coincides with its target for carbon savings and Biffa’s journey to Net Zero.
“For me it’s a perfect partnership, therefore, to work together to build a commercial and environmental solution to a long-term problem.”
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